Book of The Month- January 2012

Hi Guys,

January's BOOK OF THE MONTH: 'The Help' by Kathryn Stokett
The Help is based in Mississippi, 1962 and tells the story of 3 women living in a town named Jackson. The ladies, two of which are maids (Aibileen & Minny) tell their story and tales of life when racial discrimination was a common occurrence and the third lady, Skeeter, is a budding writer who intends to break tradition and publish accounts of the ladies such as Aibileen & Minny. The tension between the characters as they go against the grain, meet in secret and suffer the consequences of telling their tales is astonishing.
I tried to drag the book on and on because I didn't want to leave the characters behind- isn't it funny how you become attached to some but not others?! Does anybody else find this?
I missed the release of 'The Help' in the cinemas- did anyone see it? I am hoping to watch it as soon as it comes out on DVD. If you have already seen the film I would still urge you to read this book and recommend it to others also, Stockett tells such an incredible and moving story and it is not one to miss!

Anne Cassidy is an author known to many teenagers- I actually discovered her a while ago and met her when she did a talk at my school. I bought a few of her books but never picked one up until last week. 'Love Letters' by Anne Cassidy is not as well known as other titles such as 'Looking for JJ' but I really clicked with the lay-out and story line.
Love Letters is a fast-pased book and follows the life of Vicky who receives a few love letters- mistaking the admirer as her best friend's brother she is over the moon but when Vicky starts to realise who the real secret admirer really is she is less than pleased. Taking matters into her own hands Vicky creates sticky situations if she is to present her case to anyone else... will she ever be taken seriously?
The story is jolting and is no doubt based around many experiences young women and men go through all around the world- if nothing else this book is an eye opener to situations out there that you may never believe would happen and really questions the meaning of relationships and trust.
If I was to score it out of 10 I would give the title 7/10 because I couldn't put it down but was slightly disappointed by the ending and slightly freaked by some of the plot!

'Before I Die' by Jenny Downham is an intense story about a young girl named Tessa struggling to cope with cancer, she creates a list of goals she wants to achieve when she realises she only has a matter of months left to live. Tessa experiences pain, anger, betrayal and honesty and this story follows her journey through it all, alone and with her family and friends; prepare for some tears and a few giggles along the way!
Downham has been able to express such a serious and painful subject with dignity and respect and allows the reader to follow a beautiful and emotional tale. This book isn't just for teenagers, it is for everyone.

Hope you enjoy these selections and branch out next time you are in a bookshop!

Happy Reading,
Ellie xx